Herbs & Spices
Vanilla Bean
55Health
Score
CScore
Vanilla bean is the cured orchid seed pod whose vanillin provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phenolic activity alongside complex aroma.
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Why Vanilla Bean scores 55
Nutrient density2
Protein quality2
Fiber content0
Healthy fats5
Bioactive compounds14
Glycemic impact9
Top nutrients
Manganese10Copper8Potassium3.1Magnesium2.9Zinc1
Nutrition
per_100g
288
Calories
1.2g
Protein
12.7g
Carbs
0.1g
Fat
0g
Fiber
Health benefits
Provides antioxidant protection
moderate evidenceVanillin scavenges free radicals and inhibits lipid peroxidation
Offers anti-inflammatory activity
limited evidenceVanillin modulates pro-inflammatory signaling and cytokine release in laboratory models
Supports mood and stress response
limited evidenceVanilla aroma engages olfactory pathways associated with calming and reduced stress reactivity
Pairs well with
- ·Pair with dairy or cream because vanillin and the pod's aroma compounds are fat-soluble and bloom in a lipid base
- ·Combine with cinnamon and nutmeg in baked goods for layered, warming phenolic flavor
Practical tips
- ·Best timing: anytime
- ·Split the pod and scrape the seeds into warm liquid, then steep the empty pod to extract every aromatic compound
- ·Store used pods in sugar to make vanilla sugar and avoid waste
